The National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), under the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), has called for deeper collaboration among stakeholders in the aviation and security sectors to tackle the growing and complex threats facing Nigeria’s airspace.
The call was made during a symposium focused on strengthening aviation security as a critical pillar of national safety organized by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority, NCAA in Lagos.
Speaking on behalf of the ONSA, a representative of the Centre, Air Commodore Ahmad Madawaki emphasized the urgent need to confront the multifaceted security challenges that go beyond the North East and extend across all regions and sectors, especially aviation.
The symposium with the theme: “Fundamentality of Aviation Security in Achieving the Safe Skies,” was described as a timely intervention to awaken stakeholders to their roles in protecting the nation’s skies.
Air commodore Madawaki reiterated commitment to securing Nigeria’s airspace and airports through coordinated efforts among relevant security agencies.
One of the major steps already underway, he said, includes the development of a joint monitoring and screening system aimed at streamlining airport operations, eliminating inefficiencies, and curbing touting.
As well as a comprehensive security threat assessment framework for all airports and airstrips in Nigeria is currently in development.
This initiative according to Air commodore Madawaki, involves a multi-stakeholder approach designed to evaluate vulnerabilities and strengthen protective measures.
The Center also urged all aviation operators to remain vigilant and to improve intelligence sharing, noting that effective security depends on unity of purpose and action across the entire aviation ecosystem.
He stressed that ensuring safe skies is a shared responsibility that requires commitment to global standards, continuous staff training, installation of modern tracking systems, and robust data management.
As global air connectivity expands, the Centre warned that new threats are emerging, and aviation security must evolve in response.
The NCTC also reiterated that, aviation security is not only central to safe travel but also to national sovereignty, calling on all stakeholders to prioritize innovation, vigilance, and collaboration in the quest for safer skies.
The symposium was lauded as a critical platform for dialogue, innovation, and renewed partnerships in aviation security.